Laboratory Scientist Apprentice Review

I work in the Respiratory and Immunology department, specifically in the biomarker discovery group, where I assist in developing assays use to measure mediators in biological samples. In the lab, I run MSDs and ELISAs (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays) to measure cytokines of interest in cell culture supernatants and human samples.

Since working at AstraZeneca, I have learnt how to perform laboratory techniques, including ELISAs (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays), western blotting and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). As well as this, I am the lead user of two pieces of lab equipment which I maintain and help other users with. I have also developed my presenting skills since working here, whether this be in team meetings or bigger events (science fair). Working at AZ has improved my confidence and ability to interact with others.

I love working at AstraZeneca. The laboratory work is always exciting and the people I work with are incredible, from my manager to the other members of my team and other apprentices. I feel very privileged to be able to work here and enjoy all aspects of AZ culture, from the values to bringing people together each month to talk to colleagues that they normally wouldn't.

The degree is set out as week by week reading and assignments, which makes it easy to follow and keep track of. There are meetings with the University every 3 months to assess progress and any questions regarding the study can be asked. The university representatives are often slow at replying, if they reply at all to emails sent to them. One thing I have noticed frequently with the university is that there are deadlines which the students must keep to and also the university, such as marking assignments within 3 weeks of submission and exam results. I often have to chase up feedback for assignments and the time taken to get exam results has dramatically increased since I started. It used to be that results would be returned within 1 month of sitting the exam but last time it was 3 months before I had my exam results and even longer for the full breakdown. Meetings with Cogent are less regular as they are organised the week before a representative is due to come in and so it is difficult to ensure that you and your manager will be free to have a catch up. My manager ensures that I get plenty of time for university work each week and always gives me the support I need in every aspect of the apprenticeship.

My manager is amazing at providing any support I need at work, from developing my scientific knowledge to aiding with university work. He always gives me plenty of time for any studying that I need to do and is very approachable, so it is easy to ask for any help that I might need in any aspect of the job.

I have a meeting with Cogent 2/3 times a year where we discuss what work I've been doing and how I am getting on with university work, but apart from that I don't hear from them and haven't had much help towards my qualification from them.

Yes

AstraZeneca is an incredible company to work for, with brilliant people working there and doing outstanding work for patients.

Be enthusiastic about working at AZ and ask lots of questions to show interest.